SWAT K-9 Dies 2 Years After Being Shot In Line of Duty

Liz Donovan | May 20, 2016

A retired police dog who was shot in the line of duty two years ago has died of complications from his injuries.

In March 2014, K-9 Bruno, a German Shepherd Dog with the Anaheim Police Department in California, was injured when he and his partner, Officer RJ Young, were on the trail of an armed suspect. The suspect opened fire and a bullet went through Bruno's jaw and chest, collapsing his lung.

Bruno managed to survive the attack, after undergoing six weeks of veterinary care and multiple surgeries. He was retired from service and lived with Officer Young as a family pet. Later that year, the American Kennel Club presented Bruno with the Award for Canine Excellence.

But on May 18, Bruno had to undergo emergency surgery due to complications from the injury. Unfortunately, his organs failed and he passed away with Officer Young by his side.

“Bruno was a warrior to the end and we will never forget OUR HERO!” the Friends of the Anaheim Police K9 Association wrote in a Facebook post.

Last month, Bruno inspired a sculpture in Anaheim, which is titled “Valor” and is intended to honor K-9 officers. The unveiling ceremony at the La Palma Dog Park was covered by local media.